Tips and Suggestions for Washing Waterproof Mattress Protectors

Waterproof mattress protectors are designed to prevent accidental spills , bedwetting, and other liquids from being absorbed into the mattress. Most protectors have a vinyl backing to act as the barrier and protect the mattress, and a cloth top to provide comfort. When accidents occur, it is important to clean up messes quickly to prevent stains from setting.

You should carefully blot up wet areas using dry towels or paper towels. Avoid rubbing the area, as this can cause the liquid to spread and the size of a potential stain to increase. Once the main liquid has been removed, you may want to use warm water and a damp cloth to remove any remaining sticky soda and fruit juices or urine.

For more difficult stains and to prevent undesired odors, use a spray bottle filled with a mixture of a mild detergent mixed with water, or a bleach-free enzyme cleaner mixed with water to treat the area. After spraying the mixture onto the affected area of the mattress protector, allow it to sit for about five minutes before blotting it up.

Even when you treat accidental spills and bedwetting problems right away, over time the mattress protector can start to become stained. In addition, protectors will attract dirt, dead skin cells, dust mites, and odors. To restore the freshness of the protector, you need to clean the protector on a regular basis.

For cloth-topped protectors, wash and dry them in your wash machine and dryer. Select either the cold water or warm water, with cold water rinse cycle on the delicate wash cycle. Do not use hot water cycles or bleach, as both of these can damage the waterproof backing. In addition, do not add fabric softener or use dryer sheets, as fabric softeners will decrease the absorbency of the protector. You can use either powder or liquid laundry detergent, but it should be bleach-free and fabric-softener-free.

To dry the mattress protector, you can either hang it on your clothes line outdoors or put it in your dryer on the air-dry or high-heat setting. It is okay to put sheets and other items in with the protector when you dry it. Whatever you do, never iron the protector, as you could potentially melt the waterproof backing.

For more waterproof protector use and care tips and suggestions, and new protectors for your home, RV, and camper, feel free to call RV Mattress Protectors of Mattress Safe at 770-205-5335 today.